Hand Tools Introduction Hand Tools Module Overview

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Module 6: Hand ToolsTopic 1: IntroductionHand tools introductionNarration Script: Wildland fire fighting comes with a hefty toolbox. But don’t let the weight ofthe toolbox or the terms you’ll learn in this module wear you down. These topics are mostlyabout choosing the right tool for the right job—and how to take care of those tools so they returnthe favor. This module introduces you to the basic tools all wildland firefighters need to befamiliar with. From cutters to scrapers, you’ll learn the ropes not only on the “how to’s” and the“where’s and when’s” of tool use. You’ll learn how to properly sharpen, maintain, and storethese hand tools as well. Let’s get started working our way down the long list of hand tools.Hand tools module overviewThis module introduces you to the basic tools all wildland firefighters need to be familiarwith.We run down the concepts of: Carrying hand tools Using hand tools Cutting tools Scraping tools Hand tool care Hand tool storageSo, sit back, take a deep breath, and get prepared to learn and then let your knowledgeshine.Narration Script: Though you might be new to wildland fire fighting, you can still strut yourknowledge stuff out on the fireline by knowing your hand tools. Knowledge will keep you on thecutting edge of fire fighting and, more important, keep you safe.page 1

Topic 2: Cutting and Scraping ToolsIntroductionHand tools play a major role in controlling wildland fires. A hand tool’s effectiveness isdirectly related to your knowledge of how, when, and where to safely use it and the careyou give it. Even the finest tool won’t get the job done if it’s wrongly used or poorlymaintained.This topic will describe the basics of the wildland firefighter’s “tool box” including: Tool safety Cutting tools Scraping tools Fire swatters Tool care and maintenanceNarration Script: Wildland fires are often inconveniently located in rough terrain away fromaccess routes. When the call comes to manage a fire, it’s typically the wildland fire fighting crewwho arrives first to the incident. You’ll be carrying one of the most effective offensive anddefensive weapons in fire management: the hand tool. As you’ll discover in this topic, it takesmore than brute strength to build fireline with a hand tool. From safety to storage, this topicpaints the whole picture on the finer “points” of tool use. Trust us; it will sharpen your thinking.Hand tools overviewSome wildland hand tools are conventional, and some are adaptations of conventionaltools. Others, however, have been specially developed for fighting fires in wildland fuels.You and your crew boss will select hand tools based on where you are going to use themand on local preference. For example, you will use scraping or smothering tools primarilywhen fighting grass fires and cutting tools when fighting brush fires.Narration Script: Whether conventional or adaptations, your hand tools are designed to fit avariety of wildland fire fighting situations, and keep you looking smart on the fireline. Butkeeping your tools from turning into dangerous weapons means using them—as well as carryingand passing them—carefully. Therefore, safety is next on the agenda.Safety in carrying hand toolsHand tools can help you in many ways. But, if used improperly, they can hurt you! It startswith some elementary steps you may take for granted. Investigate the proper technique forcarrying hand tools.For safety while carrying hand tools: Do not run with hand tools Walk and work 10 feet (3 m) apart from other firefighterspage 2

Hold the tool at its balance pointKeep the tool at your side and close to your body, not on your shoulderPosition the cutting edges away from your bodySituate the tool on the downhill side when walking across a slopePass other workers by signaling and waiting for the right of wayTransfer the tool handle first when passing the tool to othersNarration Script: Improper methods of carrying hand tools can have disastrous results. Alwayscarry your tools in a safe manner by following some simple procedures. Never run with a handtool. Walk and work 10 feet apart. Hold your tool at its balance point. Hold it at your side andclose to your body. Don’t hold it at your shoulder. Keep the head of the tool forward with thecutting edge pointing away from your body or toward the ground. When you’re walking across aslope, carry your tool on the downside. When you pass other workers, signal “coming through”and wait to be given the right of way. And when you pass the tool to another person, pass ithandle first.Safety in using hand toolsNow you have graduated to the proper techniques for using a hand tool!For safety while using hand tools: Keep your eyes on what is being cut Wear safety glasses at all times Use the proper grip and stance Use short strokes Watch your cutting angle and path of the tool head Store tools safely when not in useNarration Script: If you can carry your hand tools properly, then you should be able to use themproperly! Always follow these procedures. Keep your eyes on what you’re cutting so that theblade hits only what you want it to hit, and wear safety glasses at all times. And use the propergrip and stance. For cutting tools, such as brush hooks, Pulaskis, or axes, this means standingwith your feet spread comfortably apart, having your feet parallel and your toes pointing at theitem you intend to cut. Then, grab the butt of the handle with one hand, palm down. And graspthe handle near the tool head with your other hand, palm up. Then raise the tool overhead, but donot break the imaginary vertical plane extending through your shoulders. Then drive the toolhead forcefully down while you slide one hand toward the other while maintaining a loose gripon the handle.Whenever possible, use short strokes when cutting. When throwing dirt, proper grip and stancemean having stable footing, proper body position, and using a sweeping motion. When using ashovel for scraping, use your leg as a leverage point for efficiency. And to prevent ricochet,always be aware of your cutting angle and the path of the tool head. Watch for obstructions in itspath that might deflect the blade into any part of your body or others around you. And don’t choptoward your feet or other body parts. And store your tools safely when you’re not using them.page 3

Knowledge Check 1Multiple choice—check the box of the answer(s) you choose.Identify THREE correct procedures when using hand tools.Walk and work 10 ft. (3 m) apartHold tools at their balance pointCarry hand tools on your shoulder for supportHold tools with the cutting edge toward your bodyUse short strokes when cuttingThe correct answers are walk and work 10 feet (3 m) apart, hold tools at their balancepoint, and use short strokes when cutting.Cutting toolsWe’ll be covering three types of hand tools: cutting tools, scraping tools, and fire swatters.Let’s start by taking a whack at cutting tools.You will use cutting tools primarily for fireline construction, including cutting brush andsmall trees. The most common hand cutting tools for wildland fire fighting are: Axes Pulaskis Brush hooks SandviksYou will investigate each of these cutting tools in turn.Narration Script: Now that we’ve covered the hand tool safety points, let’s cut to the chase andtalk about cutting tools. You will use cutting tools primarily for fireline construction in heavierfuels like brush. And of course, while computer training is great, don’t forget to get the fieldexperience you need to become skilled with cutting tools!AxesAxes are effective in mop-up operations for felling snags, chopping stumps and logs, anddriving wedges (single-bit axes only).Axe handles are made of wood or fiberglass. Two common types of axes used in wildlandfire fighting are: Single-bit—has a cutting edge on one side of the head and a flat, striking surface on theopposite side Double-bit—has cutting edges on both sides of the headpage 4

Whether it’s a single-bit or double-bit, swing the axe in a downward motion at a 45-degreeangle. We’ll talk more about how to use an axe when cutting fireline in the Suppression,Communication, and Mop-Up Module.Caption: A single-bit axe (left) and a double-bit axe (right).Sharpening axesYou are familiar with axes, but can you sharpen one?Here are the steps to follow: Sharpen the cutting edges with the proper tool, such as a 12-in. flat mill bastard file.Grind or file the edges on an even taper about 2 1/2 in. (65 mm) back from the cuttingedge. Make sure you have an even bevel on each side. Ensure the cutting edge is in direct line with the handle.PulaskisPulaskis are effective when cutting firelines and in mop-up operations.These tools are dual-purpose tools with two different types of bits on the head: One side is a cutting edge similar to an axe blade for chopping stumps and logs. The other edge, called the grubbing edge, is used to dig out roots and cut trenches.Narration Script: The Pulaski has what is called a “grubbing edge” for working below groundlevel. But don’t be shy about using an axe or the axe blade of your Pulaski to cut roots that crossyour control line. Roots are tough and may require many sturdy whacks from a sharp edge.page 5

Caption: A typical Pulaski.Sharpening PulaskisYou might not be familiar with Pulaskis, or how to sharpen one. Again, it starts with theright sharpening tool, like the 12-in. flat mill bastard file.Then, follow these steps: Taper the cutting edge 2 in. (50 mm) wide with an even bevel on each side Bevel the grubbing edge 3/8 in. (10 mm) wide straight across on a 45-degree angle onone side of the head onlyBrush hooksUse a brush hook, sometimes called a brush axe, to cut down: Small shrubs Small trees Tall grassesThe brush hook handle is very similar to a standard axe, and you’ll swing it like an axewhen you’re cutting. However, unlike an axe, the head of the brush hook is in the shape ofa J.page 6

Caption: A typical brush hook.Sharpening brush hooksNow it’s time to pick up your 12-in, flat mill bastard file and brush up on your brush hooksharpening skills.A sharpened cutting edge is on the inside of the head. While there are a number of differentdesigns available, sharpen all the cutting edges from 1 in. (25.4 mm) at the base to 3/4 in.(19 mm) at the tip.SandviksAlso called a Swedish brush axe because of its replaceable Swedish steel cutting blade, youcan use the Sandvik to cut small- and medium-sized brush and saplings.You’ll experience less fatigue using the Sandvik because it weighs about half as much as aflathead axe. Less fatigue means increased safety and productivity.Sharpen the blade to the manufacturer’s specification, or replace the blade when itbecomes dull. Inspect the Sandvik like you do for other tools.Caption: A typical Sandvik.page 7

Sharp tool advantagesThe hand tools we’ve just covered should all have sharp cutting edges. After all, what’s acutting tool without a sharp edge?All those sharp edges may make you a bit edgy. Cuts are always a possibility if you don’tcarry or use your tools properly.However, a tool with a sharp blade benefits you because it: Is easier and safer to use than a tool with a dull blade Cuts more effectively than a dull one Allows you to use short, sharp cutting strokes Reduces the need for you to raise a tool above your headAll these benefits translate into less fatigue when you use the tool. And because fatigue is aleading contributor to fireline accidents, a sharp tool is a safer tool.Narration Script: Make the proper use and maintenance of your hand tools a priority. If you keepyour tools sharp, your job will be easier, and you’ll be able to use short, efficient cutting strokes.Knowledge Check 2Matching—select the match you choose from the pull down list.Ready to see if your cutting tool knowledge is a cut above the rest?Match each cutting tool with the correct description.AxePulaskiBrush hookSandvikHead is in the shape of a JHead is in the shape of a JHead is in the shape of a JHead is in the shape of a JThe correct matches are as follows:Axe: Consists of two types: single-bit and double-bitPulaski: Has a grubbing edge and a cutting edgeBrush hook: Head is in the shape of a JSandvik: Is very lightweightScraping toolsMost scraping tools are suited for fireline construction and mop-up operations. You canuse them to: Clear away small vegetation and debris to assist in making a fireline Sift through and break up small vegetation and debrisThe most common types of scraping tools for wildland fire fighting are:page 8

ShovelsMcLeodsFire rakesHoesCombination toolsWire broomsYou will investigate each of these scraping tools in turn.Narration Script: Now that you’ve learned about cutting tools, let’s examine another type of handtool—scraping tools. There are several scraping tools you can use to construct firelines orperform mop-up operations. Here are the most common ones. Study each one to see how to useand maintain it.ShovelsThough very common and relatively simple, shovels have a wide variety of applications towildland fire fighting, from attacking to mop-up operations.Use shovels for: Digging Scraping Smothering Beating (tamping) Cutting light fuels Throwing dirtCaption: A typical shovel.page 9

Sharpening shovelsSharpen the blade of a shovel starting 1.5 in. (38 mm) from the heel on each side of theblade until a subtle point is formed at the tip of the blade. Do the same number of strokes—and with the same amount of pressure—with a 12-in. flat bastard file on each side so thatthe shovel point does not drift from the center line.McLeodsYou’ll use McLeods extensively in fireline construction and mop-up operations.There are two sides to the McLeod: Hoe blade—One side of the head consists of a solid hoe blade for cutting grass, deeplitter, and light brush. You can also use the hoe portion for trenching and grubbing. Tines—One side of the head consists of a rake with five to seven long tines. The raketines are effective in raking pine needles, duff, and leaf mold, or to dig into a burninglog.Caption: A typical McLeod.McLeod sharpeningThe hoe blade portion of the McLeod should be beveled to 45-degree angle with the 12-in.flat bastard file on the outside face of the blade making sure the blade stays straight.Fire rakesFire rakes resemble standard garden rakes except that the tines are broader and moretriangular.Sometimes referred to as council rakes or council tools, you’ll use them in firelineconstruction, mop-up, and burning-out operations in areas where you won’t need the hoefunction of a McLeod.You’ll find the fire rake well suited to fireline construction in deciduous leaves. Sharpenthe tines according to manufacturer’s recommendations, or replace the tines.page 10

Caption: A typical fire rake.HoesOne type of hoe you’ll often use has a flat blade on one side of the head and may have twoor three tines on the opposite side.Your agency or organization may prefer another type of hoe, the hazel hoe (also called adzhoe) for wildland fire fighting operations because it is a heavy-duty tool that is well suitedfor grubbing through deep duff and use in rocky soil.Use and maintain your hoe just like you would a McLeod tool.Caption: An example of a hazel hoe.Combination toolsA tool you may find very useful is the combination tool. It is a versatile long-handledimplement with a two-part, multi-position head. With the release of the locking collar, youcan change the configuration of the head and use the tool as: Shovel Pick—do not use as a prying tool Hoe Various combinations of these modespage 11

Sharpen the shovel blade of your combination tool like you would a shovel. Sharpen thepick to 45 degrees using the 12-in. flat mill bastard file.Narration Script: The combination—or “combi”—tool has both fans and detractors. It’s a “jackof all trades, master of none” kind of thing. Many firefighters prefer the combi tool for itslightness and versatility. Others would rather work with sturdier shovels, picks, or hoes. Youwon’t know until you’ve tried both!Caption: A typical combi tool configured in this example as a hoe.Wire broomsSome wire brooms resemble push brooms; others resemble ordinary straw brooms withwire bristles.The wire broom is a tool designed for use in the following types of fuels: Leaf litter Grass Grain MossYou’ll find the wire broom is especially effective in volcanic areas where light, sparsegrasses protrude through a layer of small lava rocks. You can literally sweep away grassesto create an effective fireline.page 12

Caption: A typical wire broom.Fire swatter usesFinally, now that you’re an expert cutter and scraper, let’s learn how to be an expertswatter.You use fire swatters, sometimes called flappers or flails, to smother fires in light fuels suchas: Pasture grasses Pine-needle litter Light hardwood litterIt’s most effective to use a flail in conjunction with a backpack pump or fire rake. Use flailsto knock down the flames, and then mop up the fire with water from your backpack pumpor by scraping it with the fire rake.Narration Script: Although you can use such things as wet spruce boughs to knock down flames,the tool used most often for smothering wildland fires is the fire swatter. For the best effect, useit with a backpack pump or fire rake.page 13

Caption: An example of a fire swatter.Fire swatter description and useThe fire swatter is a long-handled tool with a rubber or neoprene flap attached to one end.The flap is usually square with each side 16 to 24 in. (400 to 610 mm) in length.When you use the fire swatter, drag the flap along the edge of a fire. Be careful not to hitthe fire too hard or you may scatter burning embers into the unburned area and spread thefire.You may replace the flap if it becomes damaged by heavy use.Narration Script: In use, drag the flap along the edge of a fire. However, if the fire is hit too hard,burning embers may be scattered into the unburned area and spread the fire.page 14

Knowledge Check 3Matching—select the match you choose from the pull down list.Let’s scrape away all the fluff and get down to scraping tools!Match each scraping tool with a specific and appropriate use.ShovelMcLeodFire rakeHoeWire broomConstructing fireline in deciduous leavesConstructing fireline in deciduous leavesConstructing fireline in deciduous leavesConstructing fireline in deciduous leavesConstructing fireline in deciduous leavesThe correct matches are as follows:Shovel : Throwing dirtMcLeod: Raking, trenching, and grubbingFire rake: Constructing fireline in deciduous leavesHoe: Grubbing through rocky soilWire broom: Sweeping away light grassesHand tool summaryReview the uses and characteristics of hand tools.Narration Script: Whew! Your hands and back may be tired now. But before we continue, reviewthe following table summarizing the uses and characteristics of hand tools. Everyone has afavorite tool. After a few hours on the fireline, you may find you prefer to be on the cutting edgewith a Pulaski. Or you may favor the back-saving, longer-handled McLeod. Or chasing hot spotswith 40 pounds of water on your back may be your thing. Whichever way you go—or if youtrade off during your shift—keep all your tools in good condition and use them safely.Tool TypeCutting toolsAxesCharacteristicsCapabilitiesDouble or single bitMop-up operationsFelling snagsChopping stumps and logsDriving wedgesPulaskisCutting edge and grubbingedgeCutting firelinesMop-up operationsBrush hooksJ-shaped headClearing small shrubs, smalltrees, and tall grassespage 15Sharpening/Maintenance TipsGrind or file on an even taperapprox. 2 1/2 in. (65 mm) backfrom cutting edge; maintain evenbevel on each sideCutting edge should be in directline with handleTaper cutting edge 2 in. (50 mm)wide with even bevel on each sideBevel grubbing edge 3/8 in. (10mm) wide straight across on 45 angle on one side of the head onlySharpen cutting edge from 1 in.(25.4 mm) at base to 3/4 in. (19mm) at tip

SandviksScraping toolsShovelsReplaceable Swedish steelcutting bladeCutting small- and mediumsized brush and saplingsSharpen according tomanufacturer’s recommendationsor replace bladeLong-handledDigging, scraping,smothering, beating (tamping)Cutting light fuelsThrowing dirtCutting grass, deep litter, andlight brushTrenching and grubbingRaking pine needles, duff, andleaf moldFireline construction indeciduous leavesMop-up and burning-outoperationsGrubbing through deep duffor rocky soilShovelingPickingHoeingSharpen starting 1 in. (25 mm)from heel on each side of bladeuntil subtle point is formed atblade tipBevel hoe blade to 45-degreeangle on outside face of blademaking sure the blade staysstraightUse in leaf litter, grass, grain,and moss firesUse and store properlySmother fires in light fuelsReplace flap if damaged by heavyuseRigid tanks may be stored eitherfull of water or emptyCollapsible bladders are usuallystored emptyMcLeodsSolid hoe blade and rakewith 5 to 7 long tinesFire rakesTines are triangular in shapeand broader than standardgarden rakesHoesFlat blade on one side and 2or 3 tines on opposite sideLong-handled implementwith two-part, multiposition headCombinationtoolsWire broomsFire swatters (flails)Backpack pumpsResemble push brooms orordinary straw brooms withwire bristlesLong-handled tool with flapattached to one endCarries water or foam/watersolution; may have rigidtank or collapsible bladderAttack small fires and hotspotsOverhaul areas out of hoselinereachSharpen tines according tomanufacturer’s recommendationsor replaceUse and store properlyUse and maintain hoes likeMcLeod toolsSharpen shovel blade like aregular shovelSharpen pick on a 45degree angleHand tool careIf you use and maintain your hand tools properly, they will tend to remain in good shape.To this end, there are a few maintenance tips that will help ensure your hand tools last andperform properly.Investigate these care and feeding tips for the handles and tool heads.Handle Care and MaintenanceTo prevent accidents and injuries: Ensure handles are smooth, free of cracks or splinters, properly aligned, and securelyattached to the tool head Sand wooden handles that are splintered; refinish with a light coating of linseed oil Replace loose or cracked handles to ensure the tool head does not break loose duringusepage 16

Tool Head Care and MaintenanceTo prevent accidents and injuries: Ensure tool heads are not broken or cracked Sharpen damaged or dull cutting edges using a hand file—this will actually reducefatigue when you are using a tool Give all tool heads a light coating of oil, and keep them free of paint or rustWhen you are back at the station and using a grinder to sharpen a blade, be careful not todo it too fast. Grinding too fast will turn the steel blue and temper it, making filesharpening more difficult.Narration Script: The principles of care and maintenance are generally similar for all of the handtools that you have just learned about. Be sure to look at safety from both ends.Hand tool storageAt some point after every call, it’s time to stop using your tools and put them safely instorage.Make sure your tools are easily accessible, protected from damage, and don’t pose a hazardto anyone by following these tips: Use guards for tools with sharp cutting edges or pointed heads Store all tools in their mounting brackets on the apparatus Arrange tools in an orderly manner when they are stored in compartments instead ofmounting bracketsWarning! Never ride with loose tools or equipment in the cab or crew compartment.Secure all tools in brackets, or store them in compartments.Narration Script: Make sure your tools are stored properly after use. “Flying through the air withthe greatest of ease” should refer to acrobats on the trapeze, not for tools in the cab of yourvehicle! If there is a sudden stop or vehicle accident, you don’t want sharp tools flying throughthe air.page 17

Knowledge Check 4Multiple choice—check the box of the answer(s) you choose.Identify TWO ways to address splintering problems when using wooden-handled tools.Use a hand file to smooth damaged handlesReplace loose or cracked handlesEnsure tool heads are not broken or crackedUse handle guardsSand and refinish handles with linseed oilStore tools in mounting bracketsThe correct answers are sand and refinish handles with linseed oil and replace loose orcracked handles.Topic summaryThe various cutting tools you have to use make your job more dangerous. Obviously, sometools are more dangerous than others, and when you use them (or work nearby others whoare using them), you have an increased risk of injury. To avoid that possibility, rememberto: Check the condition of each tool and maintain it properly Know which tool is right for the job Carry and pass tools correctly Maintain proper spacing from your fellow firefightersTake these steps and your hand tools will be indispensable helpmates.Narration Script: If you follow the basics we’re covered in this topic, you’ll be on the “cuttingedge” of hand tool safety and use.page 18

Transfer the tool handle first when passing the tool to others . Narration Script: Improper methods of carrying hand tools can have disastrous results. Always carry your tools in a safe manner by following some simple procedures. Never run with a hand . tool. Walk and work 10 feet apart. Hold your tool at its balance point. Hold it at your side and

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